Field Station Assistant

Holden Forests & Gardens•Madison, OH

9d•$15•Onsite

About The Position

The Science & Conservation department seeks a part-time, seasonal Field Station Assistant. The Field Station Assistant will learn and apply traditional work-skills to assist in maintaining & improving living plant collections and research plots to further our research and conservation goals. This position is based at the David G Leach Research Station in Madison, OH, with rare work at Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, OH. The research station is a satellite campus of HF&G focused on rhododendron and azalea breeding and collections horticulture. With direction from the Rhododendron Collections Manager or Field Station Specialist, the Field Station Assistant applies mulch, prunes dead and diseased wood, waters new & established plantings, transplants and waters nursery plants, maintains turf and meadows, controls weeds and other pests, and performs other care and maintenance as needed. We are looking for a team member who wants to do meaningful work. Position Details: Reports to the Rhododendron Collections Manager Non-Exempt 2-3 days a week, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, April through September $15.00/hour Great entry level position for anyone looking for work to gain experience in the green industry

Requirements

Demonstrate a passion for people and nature
At least 2 years of relevant experience in the green or related industry, preferred
Ability and willingness to operate large and small power equipment and perform strenuous, hands-on work in all types of weather
Experience with large mowers and tractors, a plus
Ability and willingness to make pesticide applications as directed by licensed staff according to the pesticide label
Ability to work effectively in a team and independently
Ability to plan and communicate needs and actions to a team
Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to participate within a multi-disciplinary team
Maintain a valid driver's license and possess an acceptable driver’s record (of less than 3 points), required
Must be able to perform with or without reasonable accommodation: Willing and able to operate small and large power equipment and perform strenuous, hands-on work year-round in all types of weather conditions
Working outdoors or indoors where the ambient temperature spans 0-100 degrees Fahrenheit
Transporting oneself by foot over a variety of terrain that may be wet, slippery, uneven and/or rocky.
Standing, bending, kneeling, climbing, reaching, pulling, pushing, sitting, grabbing, lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs. on a repetitive basis daily

Nice To Haves

Experience with large mowers and tractors, a plus

Responsibilities

Supports Holden Forests & Gardens’ mission, vision, and values
Manages turf and meadows through regular mowing
Aids with general field and grounds maintenance including mulching, watering, pruning, planting, fertilizing, and spraying
Maintains a safe and productive working environment for staff and visitors
Safely operates a variety of machinery and equipment such as riding and push lawnmowers, motorized utility cart with dump body, tractor with bucket loader and fork attachments, cargo van, pick-up truck, chain saws, pruners, hand shears, pole pruners and saws, weed-whipper, sprayers, leaf blowers, and various wheeled carts
Inspects and maintains large and small equipment to ensure safe operating condition, e.g., sharpening tools, mixing fuel, greasing fittings, and checking fluid levels
Works cooperatively within a small team of full-time staff, interns, and volunteers
Perform other duties as required by supervisor